EP1232379B1 - Capacitive sensor on a transparent carrier - Google Patents

Capacitive sensor on a transparent carrier Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1232379B1
EP1232379B1 EP00985101A EP00985101A EP1232379B1 EP 1232379 B1 EP1232379 B1 EP 1232379B1 EP 00985101 A EP00985101 A EP 00985101A EP 00985101 A EP00985101 A EP 00985101A EP 1232379 B1 EP1232379 B1 EP 1232379B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
transparent
electrically conducting
sensor according
capacitive sensor
carrier
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EP00985101A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1232379A1 (en
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Karl-Otto Platz
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01D—MEASURING NOT SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR A SPECIFIC VARIABLE; ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEASURING TWO OR MORE VARIABLES NOT COVERED IN A SINGLE OTHER SUBCLASS; TARIFF METERING APPARATUS; MEASURING OR TESTING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G01D5/00—Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable
    • G01D5/12—Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means
    • G01D5/14—Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means influencing the magnitude of a current or voltage
    • G01D5/24—Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means influencing the magnitude of a current or voltage by varying capacitance

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a capacitive sensor according to the preamble of the claim 1.
  • Such sensors can be used on glass surfaces on which Switching functions are to be exercised.
  • the capacitive sensor is made on a carrier Glass arranged, the transparent support several electrically conductive transparent layers, e.g. ITO layers that act as a transparent sensor surface serve.
  • the invention has for its object to provide a capacitive sensor which makes it possible to mount on a carrier made of transparent material, e.g. Glass, a To establish approximation to itself. Another goal is beyond that localize the approximation.
  • a carrier made of transparent material e.g. Glass
  • the invention advantageously provides that the transparent carrier material has an electrically conductive transparent layer, the transparent Sensor surface serves.
  • the electrically conductive layer is incorporated into different areas Insulation tracks divided, with independent on each separate sensor surface capacitive sensors are connected. Because of the divisions by the Insulation sheets are formed in line-shaped sensor sheets.
  • Narrow dividing surfaces are arranged between the sensor surfaces Earthing are switched neutral.
  • the electrically conductive layer has contacts.
  • the electrically conductive layer can be in a contactless electrical field nearby second sensor surface arranged and directly connected be capacitively coupled.
  • Each electrically conductive layer can be transparent, scratch-resistant and insulating layer.
  • the carrier can consist of tempered glass or laminated glass.
  • a single transparent Carrier several superimposed electrically conductive transparent Has layers that are separated with insulating intermediate layers.
  • a transparent carrier material e.g. Glass
  • a transparent, conductive coating e.g. by vapor deposition with Indium tin oxide - ITO. This conductive coating is contacted electrically and serves as a transparent sensor surface for a capacitive proximity switch.
  • the contacting can be done by direct contacting by soldering or Gluing on glass, heat seal technology, conductive adhesive tapes, solderable coatings, Sitberitit horr or similar getting produced.
  • the location of the approximation e.g. one hand opposite the sensor surface is achieved by incorporating the conductive, transparent coating Insulation sheets 11 is divided into different areas, and each separate Independent capacitive sensors can be connected.
  • each separate Independent capacitive sensors can be connected.
  • For clear separation and to avoid mutual coupling can also be a relatively narrow separating surface between two sensor surfaces remain, which may be switched to neutral by earthing.
  • the two transparent supports 2.4 made of glass can connected in different ways: in laminated glass technology with a PVB film, in potting technique with a transparent potting compound, in Insulating glass technology with air gap, loosely placed on top of one another or by means of a suitable adhesive connected.
  • a between the transparent straps if necessary Screen printing can be opaque, translucent and / or partial his.
  • the transparent sensor can be placed between or behind the glass panes be connected to a functional layer which has a variable transmission of the Overall construction allowed.
  • the aforementioned construction options apply accordingly.
  • the conductive layer of the first sensor surface is first applied and then applied Depending on requirements, in several sensor areas 8, 12 or sensor tracks divided up. This is followed by an insulating, transparent coating in the third step, a second electrically conductive layer the next Sensor surface forms. This can also be divided. Optionally, more will follow Layers, possibly with a final insulating coating the surface are protected.
  • Diagonally active capacitive sensors are worked out in the first carrier 2, whose active areas are regularly enlarged in the form of extensions 8, 12, on which this diagonal sensor path 6, 10 is particularly sensitive and has a more active capacitive field. That is already a irregular capacitive full area sensor. Any diagonal sensor track 6,10 is connected to its own capacitive sensor.
  • the hatched areas are each connected active surface 6, 10, which runs all the way through an insulation sheet 11 from the rest Surface of the conductive coating are worked out.
  • the longer ones Diagonals are the connecting lines 7, 9 to the connecting cable depending on the glass can be brought together centrally.
  • the diagonals are between the Extensions 8.12 as narrow as possible and disproportionate in the figures broadly drawn.
  • the extensions 8 of the rear carrier 2 lie behind one non-active surface of the front carrier 4. Nevertheless, an active approach can be detected without passing through the inactive layer in front of it To be electrically shielded, this non-active area of the front Carrier 4 can be coupled into a capacitive field and practically used. However, this should only be done locally above the current extension of the rear Carrier 2 may be possible. Therefore, the non-active area of the front carrier 4 (between the diagonal columns) dissolved in islands 16, which in the extensions 8 of the rear carrier 2 can be coupled. At the same time there is an edge area around each island 16 which is connected to ground. So will the islands 16 are prevented from being coupled into the extensions of the same sensor level.
  • the octagons in the embodiment of FIG. 4 show islands 16 between the active lines in the extensions behind the next one Carrier 2 can be coupled.
  • the space between the islands 16 and the electrically conductive Layers 10 is grounded.
  • the second carrier is also constructed in the same way, i.e. Likewise provided with islands 16 and a grounded gap.
  • a multi-day carrier e.g. laminated glass
  • the capacitive glass sensor can, for example, in glass panes of a motor vehicle be used. Another area of application is, for example, glass panes a shower cabin. The glass sensor can also be on the back Provide the page with an exciter for the transmission of acoustic information his.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Switches That Are Operated By Magnetic Or Electric Fields (AREA)
  • Measurement Of Length, Angles, Or The Like Using Electric Or Magnetic Means (AREA)
  • Electronic Switches (AREA)
  • Investigating Or Analyzing Materials By The Use Of Electric Means (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft einen kapazitiven Sensor nach dem Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1.The invention relates to a capacitive sensor according to the preamble of the claim 1.

Derartige Sensoren können auf Glasflächen zum Einsatz kommen, auf denen Schaltfunktionen ausgeübt werden sollen.Such sensors can be used on glass surfaces on which Switching functions are to be exercised.

Aus der US-A-5,869,791 ist ein kapazitiver Sensor mit den Merkmalen des Oberbegriffs des Anspruchs 1 bekannt. Der kapazitive Sensor ist auf einem Träger aus Glas angeordnet, wobei der transparente Träger mehrere elektrisch leitende transparente Schichten, z.B. ITO-Schichten aufweist, die als transparente Sensorfläche dienen.From US-A-5,869,791 is a capacitive sensor with the features of the preamble of claim 1 known. The capacitive sensor is made on a carrier Glass arranged, the transparent support several electrically conductive transparent layers, e.g. ITO layers that act as a transparent sensor surface serve.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, einen kapazitiven Sensor zu schaffen, der es ermöglicht, auf einem Träger aus transparentem Material, z.B. Glas, eine Annäherung an sich festzustellen. Ein weiteres Ziel besteht darin, darüber hinaus eine Lokalisation der Annäherung vorzunehmen.The invention has for its object to provide a capacitive sensor which makes it possible to mount on a carrier made of transparent material, e.g. Glass, a To establish approximation to itself. Another goal is beyond that localize the approximation.

Zur Lösung dieser Aufgabe dienen die Merkmale des Anspruchs 1.The features of claim 1 serve to achieve this object.

Die Erfindung sieht in vorteilhafter Weise vor, dass der transparente Trägermaterial eine elektrisch leitende transparente Schicht aufweist, die als transparente Sensorfläche dient. The invention advantageously provides that the transparent carrier material has an electrically conductive transparent layer, the transparent Sensor surface serves.

Die elektrisch leitende Schicht ist in verschiedene Bereiche durch eingearbeitete Isolationsbahnen unterteilt, wobei an jede getrennte Sensorfläche unabhängige kapazitive Sensoren angeschlossen sind. Aufgrund der Unterteilungen durch die Isolationsbahnen werden zeilenförmige Sensorbahnen gebildet.The electrically conductive layer is incorporated into different areas Insulation tracks divided, with independent on each separate sensor surface capacitive sensors are connected. Because of the divisions by the Insulation sheets are formed in line-shaped sensor sheets.

Zwischen den Sensorflächen sind schmale Trennflächen angeordnet, die durch Erdung neutral geschaltet sind.Narrow dividing surfaces are arranged between the sensor surfaces Earthing are switched neutral.

Die elektrisch leitende Schicht weist Kontaktierungen auf.The electrically conductive layer has contacts.

Die elektrisch leitende Schicht kann berührungslos in ein elektrisches Feld einer in der Nähe angeordneten und unmittelbar angeschlossenen zweiten Sensorfläche kapazitiv eingekoppelt sein.The electrically conductive layer can be in a contactless electrical field nearby second sensor surface arranged and directly connected be capacitively coupled.

Jede elektrisch leitende Schicht kann mit einer transparenten, kratzfesten und isolierenden Schicht beschichtet sein.Each electrically conductive layer can be transparent, scratch-resistant and insulating layer.

Der Träger kann aus gehärtetem Glas oder aus Verbundglas bestehen.The carrier can consist of tempered glass or laminated glass.

Bei einem bevorzugten Ausführungsbeispiel sind mehrere elektrisch leitende transparente Schichten vorgesehen, deren kapazitive Funktion einander durchdringen.In a preferred embodiment, several are electrically conductive transparent layers are provided, the capacitive function of which penetrate one another.

Es können auch mehrere transparente Träger mit jeweils einer elektrisch leitenden Schicht aufeinandergeschichtet sein.Several transparent supports, each with an electrically conductive one, can also be used Layered on top of each other.

Nach einer weiteren Alternative ist vorgesehen, dass ein einziger transparenter Träger mehrere übereinandergeschichtete elektrisch leitende transparente Schichten aufweist, die mit isolierenden Zwischenschichten getrennt sind. According to a further alternative, it is provided that a single transparent Carrier several superimposed electrically conductive transparent Has layers that are separated with insulating intermediate layers.

Im folgenden werden unter Bezugnahme auf die Zeichnungen Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung näher erläutert:In the following, exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the drawings of the invention explained in more detail:

Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
einen ersten kapazitiven Sensor mit diagonal verlaufenden elektrisch leitenden, transparenten Schichten (Sensorzeilen),
Fig. 2
einen zweiten transparenten Träger mit entgegengesetzt verlaufenden transparenten, elektrisch leitenden Schichten,
Fig. 3
ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines kapazitiven Gesamtsensors zur Lokalisation einer Berührung, und
Fig. 4
ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines kapazitiven Sensors mit inselartigen nicht-aktiven Flächen.
Show it:
Fig. 1
a first capacitive sensor with diagonally running, electrically conductive, transparent layers (sensor lines),
Fig. 2
a second transparent carrier with opposite, transparent, electrically conductive layers,
Fig. 3
an embodiment of a total capacitive sensor for localization of a touch, and
Fig. 4
an embodiment of a capacitive sensor with island-like inactive areas.

Das Funktionsprinzip beruht darauf, dass ein transparentes Trägermaterial (z.B. Glas) ebenfalls transparent leitend beschichtet wird (z.B. durch Bedampfung mit Indiumzinnoxyd - ITO). Diese leitende Beschichtung wird elektrisch kontaktiert und dient als transparente Sensorfläche für einen kapazitiven Näherungsschalter.The principle of operation is based on the fact that a transparent carrier material (e.g. Glass) is also coated with a transparent, conductive coating (e.g. by vapor deposition with Indium tin oxide - ITO). This conductive coating is contacted electrically and serves as a transparent sensor surface for a capacitive proximity switch.

Die Kontaktierung kann mittels unmittelbarer Kontaktierung durch Löten oder Kleben auf Glas, Heat-Seal-Technik, leitende Klebebänder, lötfähige Beschichtungen, Sitberteitdruck o.ä. hergestellt werden. Weiterhin ist eine elektrische Kontaktierung der Sensorfläche auch berührungslos möglich, indem die Beschichtung in ein elektrisches Feld einer lediglich in die Nähe gebrachten und unmittelbar angeschlossenen Sensorfläche kapazitiv eingekoppelt wird. Dies kann durch eine Rekalibrierung der ursprünglichen Sensorfläche erfolgen und ist auch im laufenden Betrieb einer elektronischen Schaltung möglich. The contacting can be done by direct contacting by soldering or Gluing on glass, heat seal technology, conductive adhesive tapes, solderable coatings, Sitberititdruck or similar getting produced. There is also an electrical contact the sensor surface also possible without contact by the coating into an electric field of a just brought close and immediate connected sensor surface is capacitively coupled. This can be done through a Recalibration of the original sensor surface takes place and is also ongoing Operation of an electronic circuit possible.

Die Lokalisation der Annäherung z.B. einer Hand gegenüber der Sensorfläche wird erreicht, indem die leitende, transparente Beschichtung durch eingearbeitete Isolationsbahnen 11 in verschiedene Bereiche aufgeteilt wird, und an jede getrennte Sensorfläche unabhängige kapazitive Sensoren angeschlossen werden. Zur eindeutigen Trennung und zur Vermeidung einer gegenseitigen Einkopplung kann zwischen zwei Sensorflächen auch eine im Verhältnis schmale Trennfläche verbleiben, die ggf. durch Erdung neutral geschaltet wird.The location of the approximation e.g. one hand opposite the sensor surface is achieved by incorporating the conductive, transparent coating Insulation sheets 11 is divided into different areas, and each separate Independent capacitive sensors can be connected. For clear separation and to avoid mutual coupling can also be a relatively narrow separating surface between two sensor surfaces remain, which may be switched to neutral by earthing.

Der Aufbau eines kapazitiven Glassensors für das oben genannte Funktionsprinzip kann prinzipiell auf zwei Arten erfolgen:

  • 1. Der Aufbau kann auf einem einzigen, transparentem Glasträger 2 erfolgen, der die Funktion ausführt und ggf. mit weiteren Gläsern, Glastaschen und/oder Hinterlegungen zu einem Endprodukt verarbeitet werden. Der Träger 2,4 einer transparenten Sensorfläche kann auch aus gehärtetem Glas bestehen oder aus Verbundglas.
    Die leitende Beschichtung mit dem transparenten Trägermaterial wird wie eine single-layer-Leiterplatte betrachtet und entsprechend werden die einzelnen Sensorflächen 6,10 aus der leitfähigen Beschichtung herausgearbeitet.
    Alle Sensorflächen 6,10 liegen hier immer parallel nebeneinander.
    Eine abschließende, ebenfalls transparente Bedampfung mit einem kratzfesten und isolierenden Material, z.B. Aluminiumoxyd, verhindert eine Beschädigung der leitenden Schichten.
  • 2. Das Funktionsprinzip der einlagigen Arbeitsweise kann durch Kombination mehrerer einlagiger Schichten miteinander verknüpft werden, so dass nicht für jede Sensorfläche ein einzelner kapazitiver Elektroniksensor benötigt wird, sondern eine Zeilen- und Spaltenanordnung den Elektronikaufwand minimiert. Jede Zeile und jede Spalte erhält einen eigenen kapazitiven Sensor, der z.B. den Aufwand für 16 Tasten in einer 4 x 4 Matrix auf acht kapazitive Sensoren vermindert. Ebenfalls vermindert sich die Notwendigkeit der Kontaktierung auf der transparente Sensorfläche.
    Wichtig für die Lokalisation ist, dass sich die kapazitive Funktion verschiedener Sensorflächen (in den verschiedenen Ebenen) durchdringen und einen unsichtbaren, gemeinsamen 3-dimensionalen Funktionsraum schaffen.
    • The construction of a capacitive glass sensor for the above-mentioned functional principle can be done in two ways:
  • 1. The structure can be carried out on a single, transparent glass carrier 2, which performs the function and, if necessary, can be processed with further glasses, glass pockets and / or deposits to form an end product. The carrier 2, 4 of a transparent sensor surface can also consist of tempered glass or of laminated glass.
    The conductive coating with the transparent carrier material is regarded as a single-layer printed circuit board, and the individual sensor surfaces 6, 10 are accordingly worked out of the conductive coating.
    All sensor surfaces 6, 10 are always parallel to one another here.
    A final, also transparent vapor deposition with a scratch-resistant and insulating material, such as aluminum oxide, prevents damage to the conductive layers.
  • 2. The functional principle of the single-layer method of operation can be linked to one another by combining several single-layer layers, so that a single capacitive electronic sensor is not required for each sensor surface, but a row and column arrangement minimizes the electronics expenditure. Each row and each column has its own capacitive sensor, which, for example, reduces the effort for 16 keys in a 4 x 4 matrix to eight capacitive sensors. The need for contacting on the transparent sensor surface is also reduced.
    It is important for the localization that the capacitive function of different sensor areas (in the different levels) interpenetrate and create an invisible, common 3-dimensional functional space.

    • Die verschiedenen aktiven Ebenen der Sensorflächen können durch unterschiedliche Verfahren hergestellt werden, z.B.:

  • a) indem mehrere transparente Träger 2,4 mit leitenden Beschichtungen nach dem Prinzip wie unter 1. beschrieben aufeinander gelegt werden oder
  • b) indem ein transparenter Träger 2,4 mehrfach, ggf. unter Verwendung einer isolierenden Zwischenbeschichtung, mit leitendem, transparentem Material beschichtet wird.
    • The different active levels of the sensor surfaces can be produced using different methods, for example:
  • a) by placing several transparent supports 2, 4 with conductive coatings on top of one another according to the principle described under 1
  • b) by coating a transparent support 2,4 several times, if necessary using an insulating intermediate coating, with conductive, transparent material.

    • Bei Verwendung des Aufbaus nach Variante a) kann z.B. mit dem Trägermaterial Glas ein mehrlagiges, extrem stabiles Verbundsicherheitsglas hergestellt werden, bei dem die leitenden Sensorflächen auf der Innenseite des Glases angebracht sind und somit völlig kratzfest und für jeden unmittelbaren Zugriff entzogen eingearbeitet sind. Das kapazitiv aktive Feld arbeitet damit durch die Materialstärke des Glases hindurch. Die beiden transparenten Träger 2,4 aus Glas können auf unterschiedliche Weise miteinander verbunden werden: in Verbundglastechnik mit einer PVB-Folie, in Vergusstechnik mit einer transparenten Vergussmasse, in Isolierglastechnik mit Luftzwischenraum, lose aufeinandergelegt oder mittels eines geeigneten Klebers verbunden. Ein ggf. zwischen den transparenten Trägern eingebrachter Siebdruck kann deckend, translucent und/oder partiell ausgeführt sein. Der transparente Sensor kann zwischen oder hinter den Glasscheiben mit einer Funktionsschicht verbunden sein, die eine veränderbare Transmission des Gesamtaufbaues erlaubt.When using the structure according to variant a), e.g. with the carrier material Glass a multilayer, extremely stable laminated safety glass can be produced, where the conductive sensor surfaces are attached to the inside of the glass are completely scratch-resistant and incorporated for any direct access are. The capacitively active field works with the material thickness through the glass. The two transparent supports 2.4 made of glass can connected in different ways: in laminated glass technology with a PVB film, in potting technique with a transparent potting compound, in Insulating glass technology with air gap, loosely placed on top of one another or by means of a suitable adhesive connected. A between the transparent straps if necessary Screen printing can be opaque, translucent and / or partial his. The transparent sensor can be placed between or behind the glass panes be connected to a functional layer which has a variable transmission of the Overall construction allowed.

    Bei Verwendung mehrerer leitender Schichten auf einem transparenten Träger 2,4 gelten die vorgenannten Aufbaumöglichkeiten entsprechend. Generell wird die leitende Schicht der ersten Sensorfläche zunächst aufgetragen und anschießend je nach Anforderung in mehrere Sensorflächen 8,12 oder Sensorbahnen aufgeteilt. Anschließend erfolgt eine isolierende, transparente Beschichtung, auf der im dritten Arbeitsgang eine zweite elektrisch leitende Schicht die nächste Sensorfläche bildet. Diese kann ebenfalls aufgeteilt werden. Optional folgen weitere Schichten, die ggf. mit einer abschließenden isolierenden Beschichtung auf der Oberfläche geschützt werden.When using several conductive layers on a transparent support 2.4, the aforementioned construction options apply accordingly. Generally speaking the conductive layer of the first sensor surface is first applied and then applied Depending on requirements, in several sensor areas 8, 12 or sensor tracks divided up. This is followed by an insulating, transparent coating in the third step, a second electrically conductive layer the next Sensor surface forms. This can also be divided. Optionally, more will follow Layers, possibly with a final insulating coating the surface are protected.

    Der Einfachheit halber wird nachfolgende nur der Aufbau mit zwei separaten Trägermaterialien beschrieben:For the sake of simplicity, the following is only the construction with two separate carrier materials described:

    In dem ersten Träger 2 werden diagonal aktive kapazitive Sensoren ausgearbeitet, deren aktive Flächen regelmäßige Vergrößerungen in Form von Erweiterungen 8,12 besitzen, an denen diese diagonale Sensorbahn 6,10 besonders empfindlich ist und ein stärker aktives kapazitives Feld besitzt. Damit ist bereits ein unregelmäßig kapazitiver Vollflächensensor entstanden. Jede diagonale Sensorbahn 6,10 wird an einen eigenen kapazitiven Sensor angeschlossen.Diagonally active capacitive sensors are worked out in the first carrier 2, whose active areas are regularly enlarged in the form of extensions 8, 12, on which this diagonal sensor path 6, 10 is particularly sensitive and has a more active capacitive field. That is already a irregular capacitive full area sensor. Any diagonal sensor track 6,10 is connected to its own capacitive sensor.

    Hierbei sind die schraffiert gezeigten Flächen jeweils eine zusammenhängende aktive Fläche 6,10, die umlaufend durch eine Isolationsbahn 11 aus der übrigen Fläche der leitenden Beschichtung herausgearbeitet werden. Die länger herausgeführten Diagonalen sind die Anschlussleitungen 7, 9 zum Anschlusskabel, die je nach Glas zentral zusammengeführt werden. Die Diagonalen sind zwischen den Erweiterungen 8,12 so schmal wie möglich auszuführen und in den Figuren überproportional breitgezeichnet. The hatched areas are each connected active surface 6, 10, which runs all the way through an insulation sheet 11 from the rest Surface of the conductive coating are worked out. The longer ones Diagonals are the connecting lines 7, 9 to the connecting cable depending on the glass can be brought together centrally. The diagonals are between the Extensions 8.12 as narrow as possible and disproportionate in the figures broadly drawn.

    Im zweiten Träger 4 wird dies ebenfalls durchgeführt, jedoch um 90° versetzt und zwar so, dass sich die Erweiterungen 8,12 beider Sensorebenen zu einem vollflächigen Muster ergänzen.This is also carried out in the second carrier 4, but offset by 90 ° in such a way that the extensions 8, 12 of both sensor levels become one complete pattern.

    Werden diese beiden Sensorebenen passgenau übereinandergelegt, entsteht ein kapazitiver Gesamtsensor, der über die Auswertung der Diagonalspalten und Diagonalzeilen auf den Trägern 2,4 eine Lokalisation der Berührung erlaubt.If these two sensor levels are placed exactly on top of each other, a capacitive overall sensor, which evaluates the diagonal columns and diagonal lines Localization of the contact is permitted on the carriers 2, 4.

    Eine Annährung in einem Kreuzungspunkt wird nun idealerweise von zwei kapazitiven flächigen Erweiterung 8 einer Diagonalzeile und zwei kapazitiven flächigen Erweiterungen 12 einer Diagonalspalte erfasst. Über die Auswertung von Zeilenund Spaltensignalen gelangt man zur Position.An approach to a crossing point is now ideally done by two capacitive ones areal extension 8 of a diagonal line and two capacitive areal Extensions 12 recorded a diagonal column. About the evaluation of lines and Column signals get to the position.

    Die Erweiterungen 8 des hinten liegenden Trägers 2 liegen dabei hinter einer nicht aktiven Fläche des vorderen Trägers 4. Damit trotzdem aktiv eine Annäherung detektiert werden kann, ohne durch die davor liegende nicht-aktive Schicht elektrisch abgeschirmt zu werden, kann diese nicht-aktive Fläche des vorderen Trägers 4 in ein kapazitives Feld eingekoppelt und praktisch mitbenutzt werden. Dies soll jedoch nur lokal über der jeweils aktuellen Erweiterung des hinteren Trägers 2 möglich sein. Daher wird die nicht-aktive Fläche des vorderen Trägers 4 (zwischen den Diagonalspalten) in Inseln 16 aufgelöst, die in die Erweiterungen 8 des hinteren Trägers 2 eingekoppelt werden können. Gleichzeitig ist ein Randbereich um jede Insel 16 vorgesehen, der an Masse angeschlossen wird. So wird ein Einkoppeln der Inseln 16 in die Erweiterungen der gleichen Sensorebene unterbunden.The extensions 8 of the rear carrier 2 lie behind one non-active surface of the front carrier 4. Nevertheless, an active approach can be detected without passing through the inactive layer in front of it To be electrically shielded, this non-active area of the front Carrier 4 can be coupled into a capacitive field and practically used. However, this should only be done locally above the current extension of the rear Carrier 2 may be possible. Therefore, the non-active area of the front carrier 4 (between the diagonal columns) dissolved in islands 16, which in the extensions 8 of the rear carrier 2 can be coupled. At the same time there is an edge area around each island 16 which is connected to ground. So will the islands 16 are prevented from being coupled into the extensions of the same sensor level.

    Fig. 1 zeigt die aktiven Diagonalzeilen eines Trägers 2 mit Erweiterungen 8.1 shows the active diagonal lines of a carrier 2 with extensions 8.

    Die Achtecke in dem Ausführungsbeispiel der Fig. 4 zeigen Inseln 16 zwischen den aktiven Zeilen, die in die dahinterliegenden Erweiterungen des nächsten Trägers 2 eingekoppelt werden können. The octagons in the embodiment of FIG. 4 show islands 16 between the active lines in the extensions behind the next one Carrier 2 can be coupled.

    Der Zwischenraum zwischen den Inseln 16 und den elektrisch leitenden Schichten 10 ist geerdet.The space between the islands 16 and the electrically conductive Layers 10 is grounded.

    Damit ein mehrtägiger Träger (z.B. Verbundglas) von beiden Seiten bedient werden kann, wird auch der zweite Träger gleichartig aufgebaut, d.h. ebenfalls mit Inseln 16 und geerdetem Zwischenraum versehen.So that a multi-day carrier (e.g. laminated glass) is served from both sides the second carrier is also constructed in the same way, i.e. Likewise provided with islands 16 and a grounded gap.

    Der kapazitive Glassensor weist neben den bekannten Vorteilen einer Glasoberfläche (Kratzfestigkeit, Beständigkeit gegen Säure, Laugen, Öle, Fette, UV-Festigkeit, Option der Entspiegelung) weitere Vorteile durch den spezifischen Aufbau auf:

    • eine einfache Kontaktierung kann bei einem Verbundglasaufbau durch eine Lochbohrung der hinteren Glasscheibe erfolgen, ohne einen wesentlichen Einbruch der Stabilität
    • die Schaltelektronik wird immer über Relais gesteuert und kann somit unmittelbar Leistung schalten
    • es ist möglich, die Sensorfläche plan in einer Ebene mit einer Frontplatte einzubauen
    • gewölbte, gebogene, gebohrte und freie Glasformen sind möglich
    • verschleißfreie Bedienoberfläche
    • vandalensicher
    • durch Verbundglasaufbau splitterbindende Wirkung
    • durch Härtung des Glases Erhöhung der Schlagfestigkeit
    • der Sensor kann umlaufend komplett mit freien Glaskanten hergestellt werden die Kontaktierung der Sensorfläche kann durch bloßes Auflegen der Einkopplungsquellen erreicht werden.
    In addition to the well-known advantages of a glass surface (scratch resistance, resistance to acid, alkalis, oils, greases, UV resistance, anti-reflective coating), the capacitive glass sensor has other advantages due to the specific structure:
    • In the case of a laminated glass structure, simple contact can be made through a hole drilled in the rear glass pane, without a significant drop in stability
    • the switching electronics are always controlled by relays and can therefore switch power directly
    • it is possible to install the sensor surface flat in one level with a front plate
    • arched, curved, drilled and free glass shapes are possible
    • wear-free user interface
    • vandal-proof
    • splinter-binding effect due to laminated glass construction
    • hardening of the glass increases the impact resistance
    • the sensor can be made completely with free glass edges all around. The contacting of the sensor surface can be achieved by simply laying on the coupling sources.

    Der kapazitive Glassensor kann beispielsweise in Glasscheiben eines Kraftfahrzeuges eingesetzt werden. Ein weiteres Einsatzgebiet sind beispielsweise Glasscheiben einer Duschkabine. Der Glassensor kann zusätzlich auf seiner rückwärtigen Seite mit einem Exciter zum Übertragen akustischer Informationen versehen sein.The capacitive glass sensor can, for example, in glass panes of a motor vehicle be used. Another area of application is, for example, glass panes a shower cabin. The glass sensor can also be on the back Provide the page with an exciter for the transmission of acoustic information his.

    Claims (12)

    1. Capacitive sensor on at least one carrier (2,4) made of transparent material, e. g. glass, wherein the transparent carrier (2,4) comprises an electrically conducting transparent layer (6,10) which serves as transparent sensor surface
      characterized in that
      the electrically conducting layer (6,10) is subdivided by incorporated insulation paths (11) into various portions,
      independent capacitive sensors are connected to each separate sensor surface,
      narrow separating surfaces (14) are arranged between the sensor surfaces, and
      the separating surfaces (14) are grounded so as to be neutral.
    2. Capacitive sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that the electrically conducting layer (6,10) comprises terminal lines (7,9).
    3. Capacitive sensor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the electrically conducting layer (6,10) is capacitively coupled in a contactless manner into an electrical field of another sensor surface located in the vicinity.
    4. Capactive sensor according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the electrically conducting layer (6,10) is coated with a transparent, scratch-resistant and insulating layer.
    5. Capacitive sensor according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the carrier (2,4) is made of tempered glass or compound glass.
    6. Capacitive sensor according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that that the electrically conducting layer (6,10) comprises enlargements (8,12).
    7. Capacitive sensor according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that a plurality of electrically conducting transparent layers are provided whose capacitive functions penetrate each other.
    8. Capacitive sensor according to claim 7, characterized in that a plurality of transparent carriers (2,4) each having an electrically conducting layer (6,10) are placed one upon the other.
    9. Capacitive sensor according to claim 7, characterized in that a single transparent carrier (2,4) comprises a plurality of electrically conducting transparent layers placed one upon the other, said layers being separated from each other by insulating intermediate layers.
    10. Capacitive sensor according to claim 8, characterized in that the nonactive surface of a carrier (4) forms islands (16) which are coupled into the enlargements (8) of the other carrier (2).
    11. Capacitive sensor according to one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that the electrically conducting layers (6,10) extend diagonally, and that two sensor surfaces lying one upon the other comprise path-type electrically conducting layers (6,10) diagonally extending in opposite directions.
    12. Capacitive sensor according to one of claims 6 to 11, characterized in that the electrically conducting layers (6,10) of neighboring sensor surface cross each other between the respective enlargements (8,12).
    EP00985101A 1999-11-26 2000-11-27 Capacitive sensor on a transparent carrier Expired - Lifetime EP1232379B1 (en)

    Applications Claiming Priority (3)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    DE29920733U 1999-11-26
    DE29920733U DE29920733U1 (en) 1999-11-26 1999-11-26 Capacitive sensors based on glass
    PCT/EP2000/011857 WO2001038841A1 (en) 1999-11-26 2000-11-27 Capacitive sensor on a transparent carrier

    Publications (2)

    Publication Number Publication Date
    EP1232379A1 EP1232379A1 (en) 2002-08-21
    EP1232379B1 true EP1232379B1 (en) 2004-03-03

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    Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
    EP00985101A Expired - Lifetime EP1232379B1 (en) 1999-11-26 2000-11-27 Capacitive sensor on a transparent carrier

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    US (1) US6813957B1 (en)
    EP (1) EP1232379B1 (en)
    JP (1) JP4828757B2 (en)
    DE (2) DE29920733U1 (en)
    WO (1) WO2001038841A1 (en)

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    Also Published As

    Publication number Publication date
    EP1232379A1 (en) 2002-08-21
    JP4828757B2 (en) 2011-11-30
    DE29920733U1 (en) 2001-04-05
    DE50005548D1 (en) 2004-04-08
    US6813957B1 (en) 2004-11-09
    JP2003515156A (en) 2003-04-22
    WO2001038841A1 (en) 2001-05-31

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